Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!
This role is part of TeraWave, a satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This network will service tens of thousands of enterprise, data center, and government users who require reliable connectivity for critical operations.The Emerging Systems business unit at Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of 5,408 optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.
We are seeking a Firmware/Software Engineer to design, implement, and validate embedded control software for fiber/laser amplifier modules used in space optical communication links. You'll own lowlevel drivers, control loops, telemetry, and fault management from prototype bringup through qualification and production, partnering closely with photonics, electrical, and test engineers.
Special Mentions:
This position may require up to 15% travel for integration activities, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams
Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Define and implement embedded control for optical amplifiers: pump diode current/temperature control, TEC/heater loops (PID), interlocks, power sequencing, and calibration
Develop robust device drivers and interfaces for ADC/DAC, GPIO, timers, I2C/SPI/UART, and system level buses (e.g., CAN, RS422/485, SpaceWire/Ethernet as applicable)
Architect RTOS or baremetal applications, state machines, and fault detection/isolation/recovery (FDIR); implement safe states, and data logging
Bring up new hardware: bootloaders, board diagnostics, production test firmware, and hardwareintheloop (HIL) setups
Automate test and data analysis for lab characterization, regression, and manufacturing test
Ensure software quality: requirements and ICDs, code reviews, unit/integration testing, static analysis, and CI workflows
Support environmental and qualification testing (TVAC, vibration, shock) and correlate results to improve robustness
Collaborate on EMI/EMCaware firmware behaviors (timing, filtering, grounding strategies) and radiationtolerant practices (EDAC/ECC, resets, retry logic)
Minimum Qualifications:
BS/MS in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
5+ years of embedded firmware experience delivering production hardware (MCU/SoC) with C/C++
Handson development with RTOS or baremetal systems, realtime control loops, and sensor/actuator interfacing
Proficiency with lowlevel peripherals (ADC/DAC, I2C/SPI/UART, timers/PWM) and board bringup
Experience authoring requirements, ICDs, and test plans; strong debugging skills with lab instruments (scope, logic analyzer, power supplies)
Version control (Git) and software quality practices (code reviews, unit testing, static analysis)
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience controlling laser/optical amplifier subsystems (pump drivers, photodiode feedback, TECs and safety interlocks) and related calibration
Experience with test automation and data processing; familiarity with PyVISA/SCPI and HIL frameworks
Interface experience with system buses used in aerospace
Reliabilityfocused design: bootloader failsafe/secure update, telemetry/health monitoring
Awareness of space environment considerations (radiation effects, derating), EMI/EMC mitigation in firmware, and environmental testing (TVAC, vibe)
Why Blue Origin:
At Blue Origin, you'll be part of a historic mission to make space accessible to millions. Our In-Space Systems team is developing cutting-edge optical communications technology that will revolutionize how we transfer data in space. You'll work with world-class engineers in a collaborative environment where innovation is celebrated, and your contributions directly impact mission success. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible in space technology.
Join us in our mission to build a road to space so our children can build the future!
Compensation Range for:
CA applicants is $164,652.00 - $230,512.80 WA applicants is $164,652.00 - $230,512.80Other site ranges may differ
Culture Statement
Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Background Check
Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check
Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical
Benefits
Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on “Know Your Rights,” please see here.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation
Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at [email protected]. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.
California Applicant Privacy Notice
If you are a California resident, please reference the CA Applicant Privacy Notice here.
